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Bad weather and speed are a deadly combination on B.C. roads

ICBC reminds motorists to drive safely this Thanksgiving long weekend
VANCOUVER, Oct. 2 /CNW/ - Fall weather has arrived, and it can be deadly
when combined with speed on our roads. ICBC is urging motorists to use extra
caution this weekend, in particular, as customers may be travelling to visit
family and friends for the Thanksgiving long weekend.
"Every time you drive, regardless if the trip is long or short, road
safety should be your first priority," said Solicitor General John Les.
"Oftentimes in fall weather conditions, we need to adjust our driving
behaviour to do our part to reduce crashes and save lives. Remember that
posted speed limits are for ideal weather conditions and maximum visibility."
The Thanksgiving long weekend sees on average more than 1,580 crashes on
B.C. roads, which result in 540 injuries and four fatalities. These crashes
cost ICBC customers more than $12.4 million in claims costs.
Motorists planning to travel long distances are encouraged to check
weather and road conditions before they leave as conditions can vary widely
across regions. While motorists travelling shorter distances should check
directions before they leave. Traveller tips are available on www.icbc.com.
Police will be out in force this long weekend, and are stepping up
seatbelt enforcement throughout October. Seatbelts are the single most
effective way to prevent serious injuries and save lives. It's the law to wear
your seatbelt every time you travel in a vehicle, and children need to be
properly restrained in child safety seats. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt
increased to $167, as of May 14, 2007.
If you are involved in a crash and need to file a claim, ICBC's
Dial-A-Claim service is open 24 hours a day, including holidays, at
604-520-8222 or 1-800-910-4222. You can also file your claim online at
www.icbc.com.
Motorists are advised to keep the following road safety tips in mind:
- Slow down and leave plenty of extra space between you and the vehicle
in front. It can take twice the usual distance to stop your vehicle
on even slightly wet roads.
- Plan ahead and allow extra time for delays that may arise due to
increased traffic volume.
- Make staying focused on the road a priority by keeping distractions
to a minimum. Place calls before you drive, and pull over to read
maps.
- Always wear your seatbelt - it's the law.
- Never drink and drive.
Attention editors: Additional tips and statistics are available in a bad
weather fact sheet, http://www.icbc.com/road_safety/pdf/ts367.pdf.